Stack of rolled sod turf on pallets in an outdoor setting.

Tailored Turf Options for Every Yard

Carlson Sod is a family-owned sod farm in Maple Lake, MN, delivering premium, farm-fresh and durable Kentucky Bluegrass sod for homes and businesses. We proudly serve local contractors, landscapers, and homeowners with reliable service and high-quality Kentucky Bluegrass sod that thrives in our regional climate.

At Carlson Sod, we focus on one thing and do it exceptionally well—Premium Kentucky Bluegrass Sod. Our Premium Kentucky Bluegrass sod blend is built to thrive in Minnesota’s tough climate and the quality of our sod surpasses that which is found in big box stores.

How To

Estimate Your Sod Needs

Measure your yard (length × width).
Subtract non-sodded areas (house, driveway, etc.).
Divide by 9 to get square yards.
For odd shapes, break into sections and add.
Order a little extra for trimming or curves.
Or just call us—we’ll help you calculate!

Ground Prep

To ensure proper sod installation, it is essential to prepare the area beforehand. Sod should be installed on smooth, bare soil. Sod installation involves several steps: First, remove any existing grass, weeds, rocks, or other foreign materials, such as leaves. Preparation methods include utilizing a tiller, a Harley rake, or manual labor. The objective is to expose as much of the topsoil area as possible, allowing the new roots to grow. If necessary, adding topsoil may be the best course of action. In cases of uncertainty, we would be happy to provide guidance.
If using weed killer to remove existing grass or weeds, ALL WEED KILLERS HAVE DIFFERENT SPECIFICATIONS ON HOW LONG TO WAIT TO SOD AFTER APPLICATION. BE SURE TO FOLLOW THE LABEL.
If planning to install an irrigation system, it should be done prior to the finished grade. If no irrigation system is present, it is vital to have a sprinklers on site to set up immediately after installation.
Ensuring the finished grade is smooth is crucial, as the sod will conform to the installed grade. The soil near the edges of driveways and sidewalks should be approximately 3/4 inch below the edge of the concrete to create a smooth transition after installation.

Sod Installation Guide

Install sod immediately, starting along the house or curb with tight seams (no overlap).
For sloped areas, lay sod across the slope, securing it with stakes or staples if needed.
To begin laying sod, start at a straight edge such as a house, sidewalk, driveway, curb, or a string stretched between two stakes. When sodding the entire yard, it is suggested to work from the backyard towards the front. Lay the sod in staggered rows, similar to laying bricks, with the seams fitted tightly together without overlapping. If you are installing on a slope, lay the sod across the slope, not down the slope. On steeper slopes, you may wish to staple or stake the sod.
Trimming around trees, sidewalks and other obstructions may be done with a knife.

Watering

Once an area of approximately 400 square feet is installed, start watering immediately.
As sod is a perishable product, it is crucial to maintain rotating sprinklers on freshly laid areas while proceeding with the installation of the remaining yard, thereby ensuring the sod remains sufficiently moist and preventing dehydration.
The initial day of watering is crucial. Your sod must be completely saturated before retiring for the evening. Watering should continue until the sod roots down. This will take 1 to 2 weeks. Keep sod consistently moist to ensure the underlying soil remains damp.
To ensure optimal results, sod should be laid within 24 hours of delivery. In periods of high temperatures, same-day installation is necessary, as sod experiences shock after being harvested and relocated. Proper hydration is vital; thus, immediate watering is necessary.

Mowing

Generally your new sod can be mowed within the first 10-14 days after installation. Go around to several different areas of the yard and tug on edges to see if the grass has rooted. If the grass is well rooted it’s time to mow.

The grass will be extra long so:

It is best to use a walk behind mower the first time you mow.
Put the deck up as high as it goes
Mow slowly, at half throttle or less.
You may need to bag or rake up clippings.

Essential Sod Care

Watering

During Installation: Water each section immediately.
Duration: Water at least 30 minutes per zone—less will evaporate.
First 2 Weeks: Water 2-3 times daily.
After Establishment: Deep water 1–2 times/week based on rainfall.

Fertilizing

Before Installation: Apply starter fertilizer (high phosphorus, low nitrogen).
After Establishment: Use balanced fertilizer 2–4 times/year.
Always water after fertilizing to activate nutrients.

Mowing

First Mow: When the sod has rooted (Generally 10 to 14 days after installation).
Routine: Maintain at 2.5–3 inches tall.
Rule: Never cut more than 1/3 of blade height. Use sharp blades.

Seasonal Availability

In Minnesota, we install sod from April through early November, depending on weather—plan early!

Let’s Get Rolling on Your New Lawn

Ready to lay down lush, green sod? Whether it’s a backyard refresh or a full-scale landscaping project, we’ll help you get the right turf at the right price. Get a fast, no-hassle quote today and see how easy it is to go green with Carlson Sod.

Request a Free Quote

Black and white abstract vertical spikes pattern.